One of the most powerful conversations I’ve had on The Beyond Impact Podcast was with Diane Strand—not because of fame or accolades, but because of purpose.
Diane is an actress, producer, educator, and founder of JDS Creative Academy. But more than that, she’s someone who saw a broken system and decided to build something better.
Instead of asking, “How do I succeed in this industry?” she asked a more meaningful question: “How do I create opportunity for others?”
“There are so many talented people who never get access,” Diane told me. “Not because they lack ability, but because the door was never opened for them.”
The Gap Between Talent and Access
Creative industries like film, television, and media are full of gatekeepers. If you don’t know the right people, live in the right city, or have the right resources, your chances shrink quickly.
Diane saw this firsthand throughout her career. She met incredibly gifted individuals—many with disabilities, from underserved communities, or without financial support—who were told, directly or indirectly, that this industry wasn’t for them.
That didn’t sit right with her.
Building Real Pathways, Not Just Inspiration
Instead of creating another program that simply talked about dreams, Diane built something rooted in real-world experience. JDS Creative Academy teaches students how to work in media by actually working in media.
Students don’t just learn theory. They step onto real sets. They work on real productions. They gain tangible skills that translate into actual jobs.
“Hope is important,” Diane said. “But hope without skills and opportunity doesn’t change lives.”
This approach transforms creativity into a career path, not a long shot.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
We live in a world where storytelling shapes culture. Who gets to tell those stories—and who gets left out—matters.
Diane’s work isn’t just about jobs. It’s about representation, dignity, and empowerment. When people see themselves behind the camera, not just on the screen, it changes how they see their future.
It also changes the industry for the better.
By opening doors and building pathways, Diane is proving that creative careers don’t have to be exclusive. They can be inclusive, intentional, and deeply impactful.
Hear the Full Conversation with Diane Strand
Diane and I talked about education, access, storytelling, and what it really takes to build opportunity where it doesn’t exist yet. If you care about creativity with purpose, this episode is a must-listen.
Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not. Leaders like Diane Strand remind us that the most meaningful success comes from building bridges for others to cross.
